Four Reasons why a Harness is better than a Collar

Collars are simply not the best for your pet. Harnesses are the better choice. As stated by the American Kennel Club "Using a dog harness instead of a dog collar makes it easier to control and manage any dog" (https://www.akc.org/), and there are many other good reasons to choose a harness over a collar. Many vets and pet lovers agree that it’s time we make the switch to dog harnesses. Here are four reasons why:

1. Harnesses are Safer and more Secure

Because harnesses wrap snugly around the torso of your pet, they are very secure, even comforting for them, and the harness will keep your pet in place. In the car, the harness is a great safety measure. In the event of a sudden stop, the obvious difference between a collar and a harness alone makes it clear which is the smarter choice. Connected to the seatbelt, the harness will help to safeguard your pet when travelling in the car. And some harnesses can be a great solution for those little escape artists. For example, the Tre Ponti Strap harnesses are practically inescapable, even for cats.

 

2. Harnesses are Great for all Sizes

As noted by the AKC, you will have more control over your dog by using a harness than with a collar. This is true whether you have a big dog, small dog, or even a cat. With large dogs, a harness gives you better control and is also easier on your arms and back. With smaller pets, the harness envelopes the torso, so that control is easy and safe. Whether it be a big dog, small dog, or small pet, harnesses are the best choice.

 

3. Harnesses can Prevent Choking and other Injuries

A collar puts a great deal of unnecessary pressure on your dog's neck. As she pulls against her collar, choking, coughing, and neck injuries can result or be hastened. By contrast, a harness distributes her entire weight throughout her body while giving you control at the same time. This is especially important for pets with health issues. Be it an old dog, an injured dog, a pet with trachea problems, or a disabled pet--a harness can really help! Even if your dog just needs a little assistance to get on his feet, a harness pulls him up gently without causing any pain or discomfort.

 

4. Harnesses can Help with Training

A harness will let you have more control over your dog and therefore can really help with training. According to the AKC, a harness can even help prevent pulling. "Harnesses discourage pulling. When your dog is wearing a collar and pulls on the leash, he’s still moving forward, which makes him think the pulling is successful. A harness, whether attached on his chest or between his shoulder blades, redirects him; there’s no reward because pulling doesn’t get him anywhere" (https://www.akc.org/). Harnesses can also be a good training tool for puppies that haven’t yet learned to walk on a leash. A harness will prevent the dog from getting tangled up in the leash and possibly hurt in the process.